Finale (part 3)

Billy Martin, yes that Martin of usual Medeski and Wood company, breaks out on his own for this solo album recorded live at Tonic in 2002. A couple of tracks of stage chatter hike up the intimacy factor and clue the listener in on some particular Martin skills and fascinations, like his adoption of the Burundi drums. Really, though, the record is 14 solid tracks of beats and rhythms that challenge the notion that it’s just one guy behind the set. For those in the crowd who made it all the way to Finale (Part 3), the rewards of the evening were obviously well enjoyed.

—MS